Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken and Rice
There’s nothing better than a comforting, home-cooked meal that requires minimal effort, and this Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken and Rice is just that! With tender, juicy chicken infused with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, this dish is packed with flavor in every bite.
Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this one-pot meal is a hands-off solution for a delicious dinner. The slow cooker does all the work, letting the flavors meld together beautifully while you go about your day.
Lemon and garlic are a match made in heaven, adding brightness and depth to the dish. The rice absorbs all the rich juices, making it incredibly flavorful and satisfying. Plus, this meal is naturally gluten-free and can be easily adapted to suit various dietary preferences.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or feeding a family, this Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken and Rice is a foolproof recipe that delivers incredible results every time. Keep reading for all the details, tips, and variations to make this dish perfect for your table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless & Hands-Free – Let the slow cooker do all the work while you enjoy your day.
- Full of Flavor – Lemon and garlic create a bright, savory, and slightly tangy taste that’s irresistible.
- One-Pot Wonder – Easy cleanup means more time to relax after dinner.
- Great for Meal Prep – Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for a future meal.
Perfect Pairings
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of steamed broccoli. If you love a bit of crunch, serve it with warm, crusty bread or garlic butter dinner rolls.
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
- Use Chicken Thighs for More Flavor – They stay juicier than chicken breasts.
- Don’t Overcook the Rice – If using brown rice, add an extra 1/2 cup of broth and increase cook time by an hour.
- Add More Veggies – Stir in spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
- For a Creamier Texture – Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt at the end.
Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken and Rice
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice or brown rice
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 lemon juice and zest
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup frozen peas optional, for extra color and nutrients
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté the minced garlic and diced onion until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Transfer the sautéed aromatics to the slow cooker.
- Layer Ingredients: In the slow cooker, add the uncooked rice, chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, pepper, oregano, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
- Add Chicken: Place the chicken on top of the rice mixture. Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in the frozen peas (if using) and let sit for 5 minutes. Shred or slice the chicken as desired. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Variations & Substitutions
- Make It Dairy-Free – Skip the optional cream and use coconut milk instead.
- Low-Carb Version – Swap rice for cauliflower rice and reduce the broth to 1 1/2 cups.
- Spicy Twist – Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
- Lemon-Herb Version – Toss in fresh rosemary or thyme for added depth of flavor.
Common Questions
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but for food safety, it’s best to thaw chicken first to ensure even cooking.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then let the pressure naturally release for 5 minutes.
What if my rice turns out mushy?
Try using parboiled rice or cooking the rice separately and stirring it in at the end.
This Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken and Rice is a tried-and-true favorite that’s easy to customize to your taste. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a guaranteed winner. Try it tonight and enjoy the effortless, delicious flavors!
